Published September 3, 2024
BY TULLAH MCCOLL
In spring 2024, former Carmel High School English and drama teacher Tom Clifford was asked to finish out the year for the current drama teacher on leave. Now teaching Drama 1 and Drama 2 classes until the end of December at CHS, Clifford is enjoying being back in the classroom making connections with passionate students.
Tom Clifford has been enjoying his retirement with his dog, Mae, exploring and appreciating each other’s presence. (photo by TOM CLIFFORD)
“I personally know the impact that theater can have on a student’s life,” the former CHS teacher says. “Both my adult kids thrived when they did theater at CMS and CHS.”
Being back at CHS is giving Clifford a chance to share his love for the art of theater once again.
“When I retired I enjoyed the freedom of time,” Clifford shares. “But I did miss the connection with students in my classroom, with my colleagues and with the school community at large.”
Not being governed by a school bell allowed Clifford to explore hobbies and interests he formerly did not have time for. Immediately after retirement, Clifford adopted a 9-week-old puppy he named Mae, with whom he found a love for hiking and trail running together.
Although his time in retirement has been relaxing and allowed him to explore more of his interests, Clifford is happy to be back doing work he is passionate about for the time being. In his time as Drama teacher at CHS, starting in 1990, he directed eight shows before leaving the department.
“Despite different motivations for taking the class,” Clifford begins, “it’s invigorating to create a safe, enthusiastic and creative space for students to explore theater and acting technique [in order for] all students to grow as actors.”
Although CHS theater manager Jeff McGrath will be directing the fall show, Clifford hopes to not only experience a show with a live audience before the end of the semester, but also bring some of his personal ideas to the class, his students and the department while he is back.
